Birth of the Blues The JLCO with Wynton Marsalis
About This Event
Birth of the Blues: The JLCO with Wynton Marsalis at Jazz at Lincoln Center presents the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra’s repertory-based exploration of the blues, rooted in the music and legacy of W.C. Handy. The lineup includes Wynton Marsalis alongside JLCO figures such as Sherman Irby and vocalist Kenny Washington, with performances that emphasize structure and historical context over spectacle.
About Birth of the Blues(song)
“Birth of the Blues” is a 1926 popular song by Ray Henderson, Buddy DeSylva, and Lew Brown, written for Broadway’s *George White’s Scandals* and quickly absorbed into the jazz repertoire. Its lyric treats the blues as a kind of folk invention, tracing the music to an imagined origin story rather than documented history. In New York, it would have been heard first in the Broadway run at the Apollo Theatre, then carried outward through recordings and dance bands. The song is a reminder of how Broadway helped package Black musical forms for mainstream audiences.
About the Artists
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO)
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO), led by the renowned Wynton Marsalis, is celebrated as the world’s premier big band, showcasing the rich traditions and vibrant evolution of jazz. Comprised of 15 talented permanent members, the JLCO captivates audiences with its dynamic performances in New York City and across the globe, collaborating with jazz luminaries and continuing to push the boundaries of the genre.
Sherman Irby
Sherman Irby, a dynamic force in the world of jazz, captivates audiences with his soulful alto saxophone performances. As a leading figure at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Irby melds tradition with innovation, offering a fresh take on jazz standards.
Kenny Washington
Kenny Washington, a luminary in the world of jazz, captivates audiences with his soulful voice and dynamic stage presence. Known for his mastery in jazz improvisation, he graces the iconic stage of Jazz at Lincoln Center, a cornerstone of New York City's vibrant cultural scene.
Birth of the Blues The JLCO
Birth of the Blues The JLCO is a Jazz at Lincoln Center presentation rooted in the repertory traditions of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. The project has been performed at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, with Wynton Marsalis and JLCO musicians, and in dialogue with the legacies of artists such as W.
Wynton Marsalis
Wynton Marsalis stands as a towering figure in the world of jazz, captivating audiences with his exceptional artistry and dynamic performances. As a key performer at New York City's iconic Jazz at Lincoln Center, Marsalis infuses his music with both tradition and innovation, creating a vibrant tapestry of sound that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, a vibrant ensemble under the artistic leadership of Wynton Marsalis, stands as a cornerstone of New York City's jazz scene. Known for their dynamic performances at iconic venues like Jazz at Lincoln Center and 92NY, this group brings the rich tradition of big band jazz to life with a modern twist.